Maurice McCartan

Male 30 - 34yrs

I am originally from Newry so I knew of The Crooked
Lake Sprint (excellent race) and decided that I would give this a go after
watching it once, 5 years later and I am still racing.

Talk us through your average training week?

Normally I would do a cycle set with an easy jog off
the bike on the Monday followed by a relaxing swim if time permits later in the
day. Tuesdays are running and core work and that is followed on Wednesdays with
a tough pool set followed by a run. Next comes my favourite day of the week,
Thursday; my rest day! Fridays I am on the bike for an hour or 2 followed by a
relaxing run later in the day.

Weekends are when it gets a lot tougher as I usually
do a brick of some description on the Saturday followed with a relaxing swim
and Sundays are dedicated to long hours in the saddle.

When I am back home in Newry I love cycling round
the Mournes, the scenery is amazing and the roads are generally in good nic
which makes the experience a lot more enjoyable.

What is your favourite triathlon discipline and distance to
compete at?

I love many courses
over all distances but I guess it would be the half iron distance as I have a
lot more time to hunt down the people ahead of me as I have quite a strong run.
I would have said this was my favourite part of the race but I am increasingly
enjoying the cycle and even the swim.

What is your big weakness?

Swimming - I suck.

What’s your favourite race?

A tossup between The Crooked Lake Sprint and Kenmare
Lost Sheep, The Crooked Lake would probably win as the course is excellent and
the support from the crowds is even better.

Most embarrassing triathlon memory?

My chain snapping half way through the cycle on my
very first race at the Crooked Lake in 2007, I ran the rest of the way back and
even completed the run leg but the finish line was being pulled down at that
stage. It was a matter of pride!

Your favourite piece of triathlon kit?

My Saucony Fast twitch 4 run shoes, they are so
light, I will never wear another shoe.

What are your goals for next season?

To compete in The World Long Distance Championships
in Spain and finish in the top 30 of my age group and break 5hrs at
Kenmare.

What do you do in your down time?

Very little, watch TV
and read.

A big thanks to Maurice for taking the time to fill out the questions. Best of luck with your training and racing.